There's something satisfying when designers re-appropriate used or trash-bound items, transforming them into wholly new purposeful objects...an inspiration for any DIY'er who believes in ecological-ideological handicraft. Finnish designer Aki Kotkas transforms thrown out items like washing machine drums and used bottles into new household items that retain the beauty of the original material while offering a whole new utility; photos of Kotkas work under the jump...

I design mainly from recycled materials, but new materials are also in my interest. I design functional objects with a personal touch. Important for me is quality - I want to design durable things, tomorrows antique, which respects nature as well as man. Some designs I make myshelve, some are in Seccos production. I also give lessons about recycling materials in design.

Aki Kotkas items are sold via SeccoShop.